The Best Albums of 2024: A Celebration of Music

We are two weeks away from 2025, and while 2024 has been a rollercoaster full of highs and lows, one thing remained constant – the incredible music artists delivered this year. From viral singles to carefully crafted albums, many musicians dedicated hours, days, months, or even years to creating immersive bodies of work that offered listeners a glimpse into their worlds. Releasing an album remains one of the greatest artistic achievements, so let’s celebrate the artists who blessed us with amazing discographies this year.

Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra

Rauw Alejandro expanded his sound and artistry this year with his latest album, “Cosa Nuestra.” Venturing outside the reggaeton realm, Rauw infused salsa, bachata, and other genres into this project, showcasing his artistic growth. While it came late in the year, his covers of iconic songs like “Tu Con El” by Frankie Ruiz have earned praise, and the album set the stage for his much-anticipated 2025 tour. With epic collaborations Bad Bunny, Pharrell Williams, Romeo Santos, and Feid, the sky is the limit for the Puerto Rican. 

Chappell Roan 

The power of Chappell Roan was undeniable this year. The singer from Missouri skyrocketed into fame last year after opening up for Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour. The “Hot To Go” singer’s life has changed forever and her album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” will go down in pop culture history as one of the most impactful releases for an artist and their fans.

Fuerza Regida – Pero No Te Enamore

Fuerza Regida’s album, “Pero No Te Enamore”  blended their signature regional Mexican style with hip-hop, trap, reggaeton, and electronic elements. Packed with bangers from start to finish, the album features “Fresita,” arguably one of the best songs of 2024.

Reyna Tropical – Malegría

Fabi Reyna of Reyna Tropical released her debut album, “Malegría,” in March, following the passing of her collaborator and Nectali “Sumohair” Díaz. This work is a love letter to “queer love and Afro-Mexico,” highlighting the diaspora, grief, power, love, and healing. With an ethereal sound that touches every chakra and emotion, Reyna Tropical delivers one of the most musically and emotionally profound projects of the year.  

Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet

Another testament to the power and resurgence of pop music, Sabrina Carpetner’s “Short n’ Sweet” album came at the height of her musical career. While it’s her sixth studio album, the chart-topping discography earned her 8 Grammy nominations including Album of the Year with viral success like “Espresso,” and “Please Please Please.”

Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter

Beyoncé changed and reclaimed country music with her ‘Cowboy Carter’ album. The March release took the world by storm with songs like “YA YA” and collaborations like Post Malone and Miley Cyrus. The album leads her to dominate the 2025 Grammy nominations with 11.

Peso Pluma – Éxodo

Mexican superstar Peso Pluma dominated 2024 with his second studio album, “Éxodo.” Featuring an impressive list of collaborations and infectious sounds, the album solidified his global dominance. This project set the stage for a sold-out world tour and further cemented Peso as one of the most exciting and influential voices in música Mexicana and earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Música Mexicana Album.

Willow Smith – empathogen

Willow Smith’s latest album, “empathogen,” continues her streak of breaking musical boundaries. In a world of “nepo babies,” Willow carves out her own legacy with raw talent and undeniable skill. “empathogen” is a front-to-back experience that evokes deep, soulful emotions, showcasing her artistry, vocal range, and unique vision.

Kendrick Lamar – GNX

Kendrick Lamar ignited a cultural moment this year, with his epic rap battle with Drake. Following the beef, he released his stunning album, “GNX.” The album is being celebrated as one of his best, with powerful lyrics and collaborations uniting Black and Latino culture. 

Kali Uchis – Orquídeas

Kali Uchis had a monumental year, releasing her album “Orquídeas” while pregnant with her first child. With one of the most unique voices in Latin music, Uchis delivers a Spanglish masterpiece full of romantic, sensual, and danceable tracks, making this album a soundtrack for love-filled nights and dance floors everywhere.

Billie Eilish – HIT ME HARD AND SOFT

Billie Eilish never misses when it comes to her music. Her release of “HIT ME HARD AND SOFT” made waves after its release in May, receiving seven nominations for the Grammys, including Album of the Year. With stunning tracks like “Birds of a Feather” and “Wildfire” the discography, which she produced with her brother FINNEAS, is beautiful. 

Gracie Abrams – The Secret of Us

There’s something to say about openers for 2024. Like Carpenter, Gracie Abrams skyrocketed to fame, instead opening up for Taylor Swift.  Her album “The Secret of Us” is a viral success with videos and remixes all over TikTok.  The catchy instrumentals and her majestic voice make her music easy to fall in love with. 

Taylor Swift – The Tortured Poets Department

Taylor Swift has spent the last year on tour and is undoubtedly one of the hardest workers in the entertainment industry. The release of “The Tortured Poets Department” in April marked her eleventh studio album and earned her six nominations including Album of the Year.